From Bruno Caruso, Brazillian Finn Secretary

“The sailor Jorge Zarif Neto, 50 years old, died this Wednesday (12), around 8h30, a victim of a heart attack while he worked out in the gym. The native of São Paulo, he is one of the main figures on the national sailing scene and is also a veteran of two Olympics. In February, he came close to qualifying for a third one, during the Brazil’s Sail Selection.

Zarif was always on the national sailing scene. He was nine times Brazilian champion of Finn class and took part in the Olympics of Seoul and Los Angeles. Despite his age, he still committed himself to the Olympics in London.

A dedicated father, he transferred his nautical knowledge to his youngest son, Jorginho; and saw the same passion and talent that marked his entire career appear. Only last Saturday, Jorginho, won a spot in the Brazilian team for the Youth World in Denmark. In the Olympic qualifiers, helped by his dad, Jorginho was runner up.

He was famous for being controversial on the waters worldwide and divided opinions. He was loved and hated, but nobody set indifferent to his thoughts. Strong, friendly and ethical, he would definitely say at this moment, one of the phrases that haunted him these last few years, “It was a pleasure and an honour to be a part of”.

His body will be cremated and the ceremony is marked for 6h00 of this Thursday.”